For decades, the most popular Greek islands have attracted thousands of visitors drawn to the immaculate beauty, rich history, and the infinite blue of the Aegean Sea and sky. However, other destinations have remained under the radar—cherished privileges for the Greeks and well-kept secrets for savvy travelers.
Away from the crowds and busy tourist magnets, the Northern Aegean islands offer undisturbed natural splendor, scenic towns and villages, and beautiful, uncrowded beaches. It’s time to discover them and the pleasures they hide.
Thasos: An Emerald Paradise Steeped in History
You’re bound to be captivated by the natural beauty, rich history, numerous antiquities, and countless old churches and monasteries of this northernmost Aegean island. Pine forests and olive trees descend from the rocky landscape to the water’s edge along the island’s perimeter road.
Limenas, the port, and Panagia, located away from the coast, are picturesque villages with representative Greek architecture and culture. Every type of beach imaginable can be enjoyed here. You’ll be spoiled for choice among shallow waters with golden sand and pine trees, small bays, and spotlessly clean pebbly shores.
Limnos: Volcanic Landscapes and Warm Hospitality
Hephaestus, the ancient god of the forge, once called this island home, which boasts a distinctive geography shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions and a long, curly coastline with splendid beaches, caves, rock formations, dunes, and crystalline waters.
The island is home to beautiful stone villages, lakes and wetlands, ancient theaters, temples, and windmills. The warm and welcoming locals, preserved traditional character, and celebrated local cuisine make a holiday in Limnos a thoroughly fulfilling experience.
Myrina, the island’s principal port and administrative capital, stretches across two bays and has an old-world allure with neoclassical mansions and a magnificent Venetian palace, the largest in the Aegean.
Samothraki: A Mysterious and Rustic Fairyland
Samothraki is a remote and mountainous island, undiscovered by the masses but loved by adventurers. Its wild nature, beautiful lakes, rivers, and footpaths lead deep into thick forests.
Mount Saos, soaring at 1600m (5,250ft), is the defining landmark of the island, where oak, cedar, and chestnut trees thrive on its slopes. While exploring these magical woods, you might not encounter druids and nymphs, but you can plunge into the clear streams that create waterfalls and stone basins—amazing natural swimming pools locally known as vathres.
The wetlands, home to migratory birds, rugged beaches, and geothermal springs complete the stunning topography. Furthermore, Chora’s charming cobblestone alleys and the old castle looming above add to the island’s charm and cultural appeal.
Lesvos: Large-Scale, Low-Key
With its pleasant Mediterranean climate, abundant flora and wildlife, unending olive groves, and relaxed lifestyle, Greece’s third-biggest island offers an understated alternative to some of the more touristed destinations. Quaint villages, verdant landscapes, pine forests, and thermal springs hide countless wonders waiting to be discovered.
The capital, Mytilene, presents a nice blend of traditional and modern architecture, boasting a vibrant harbor and narrow streets lined with cafes and shops. The ancient ruins of Eressos, the famous Petrified Forest, and Molyvos village with its old stone houses and imposing castle are must-visit attractions.
Lesvos, with its varied ecosystem, is a birdwatcher’s paradise as it attracts numerous migratory bird species. Its culinary scene is a real treat for food aficionados, offering diverse beach experiences ranging from bustling and cosmopolitan to hidden and secluded—ideal for a perfect holiday.
Chios: Mastic Trees and Scenic Villages
Said to be the birthplace of Homer, Chios remains one of the least-explored Greek islands, as its traditionally seafaring population consciously resists the mass tourism that affects other locations.
The island is known as the exclusive source of mastic—the precious, fragrant resin that grows around the southern part of the island. The unique Chios Mastic Museum tells the extraordinary story of this local treasure. With a rich history reflected in its fortress-like medieval villages, distinctive architecture, maze-like cobblestone alleys, and attractions such as the Byzantine Museum and Nea Moni, Chios is a splendid cultural hub worth exploring.
Furthermore, the island offers beautiful and diverse beaches for those seeking relaxation. Mavra Volia, tranquil Trachili, remote Agia Dynami, and cosmopolitan Karfas are just a few options among the island’s splendid seaside locales.
Samos: Ancient Heritage and Prolific Greenery
Samos has been home to renowned philosopher Epicurus and mathematician Pythagoras. This island, characterized by lush landscapes, green mountains, caves, and gorges, also boasts a significant cultural heritage and historical importance.
The UNESCO-listed ancient city of Pythagoreion and the Temple of Hera—believed to be born here according to Greek mythology—are among Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. Active visitors can hike up Mount Kerkis and explore the Genoese Castle and Tower of Sarakinis. Nature lovers might enjoy birdwatching at places like Alyki Wetland or Glyfada Lake, or exploring the magnificent waterfalls of Karlovasi.
Samos beautifully combines vibrant night life and full beaches with serene retreats ideal for relaxation and unwinding.
Ikaria: Secrets for a Long, Carefree Life
Ikaria is a distinct Greek island; its ultra-relaxed lifestyle results in one of the longest life expectancies in the world. The island is known for its lively summer festivals and stunning landscapes.
The village of Christos Rachon stands out for its unique life schedule: deserted during the day, it comes alive after sunset, with shops, cafes, and other establishments open all night. The diverse coastline with its white stone shores, caves, and rock formations, alongside sandy beaches with turquoise waters, creates an extraordinary terrain for nature lovers and adventurers.
Small is Beautiful: The Best of the Rest
On several smaller islands—gorgeous yet unaffected by mass tourism—you’ll feel as if time stopped decades ago. Family fish tavernas and a few shops providing basic wares are the only commercial encounters on these mainly fishing and beekeeping paradises.
Agios Efstratios (Ai Stratis) was once a place of exile for political opponents during turbulent times. Fournoi and the smaller Thymaina are the only inhabited rocky islets between Samos and Ikaria. Wealthy Oinousses, with its long naval tradition, serves as a tranquil summer retreat for affluent Greek shipowners. Meanwhile, Psara has a profound history linked to the Greek War of Independence. These petite delights of the Aegean are perfect for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate escape.
All boast solitary and immaculate beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and rocky terrains sculpted by the salty Aegean waters, swept by northern winds—ideal for those longing for calmness, seclusion, and spectacular starry nights like nowhere else in the world.
